A family cloaked in secrets. A beguiling woman. A unique setting. Inspector Bordelli is back to solve one of the most difficult cases of his entire career in the sixth book in this atmospheric and evocative crime noir series by Marco Vichi - perfect for fans of Andrea Camilleri.

1967. It is winter in Florence, and one year has passed since the city was devastated by the flood of the Arno. Though the waters have receded, the memories of that day continue to linger with the stains on the city walls. Residing in his farmhouse in the Florence hills, Inspector Bordelli is weighed down with remorse and yearning for the woman he has lost when a new case presents itself. An old, rich man loved by everyone he knew has been killed in his own Fiesole villa and the murderer has left no trace. While Bordelli questions the relatives and struggles to solve the intricacies of the crime, he encounters a stooped, worn figure, who he recognises as an old acquaintance from the War. Welcoming the man into his home, Bordelli sets out to help him recover with the aid of good food and good wine. But little does Bordelli know that his old friend is leading him ever closer to a mysterious woman - the person who holds the secrets at the heart of the mystery.